Mattawa, Othello clinics to receive COVID-19 grants

MATTAWA — Mattawa Community Medical Clinic and Columbia Basin Health Association will receive grant money from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to help them address the COVID-19 outbreak.

The grants were announced Thursday, May 7. Recipients will receive the money once they submit a budget, according to Dana Fox, chief executive officer for Mattawa Community Medical Clinic. The clinic is expected to receive $131,179. Fox said Mattawa clinic officials are considering a drive-up window for the pharmacy. Drive-up service would eliminate the need for some to enter the building. The clinic has a designated area in the parking lot where people are evaluated before entering the building, and Fox said clinic officials want to upgrade the tent, the handwashing station and other equipment in that area.

Columbia Basin Health Association, which operates clinics in Othello, Mattawa and Connell, is expected to receive $647,734.

The money also can be used to purchase protective equipment, COVID-19 testing kits, contact tracing, obtaining tests and staff training.